Now I'm looking to get out of my present line of work (mechanical design), and build a company to include different aspects of real estate.

Any experience with common brands and which have a strong locking mechanism? 

Think of a mechanic that is telling you to buy Car Model A over Car Model B... they are the ones in a position to know that Car Model B breaks down all the time, based on what they see rolling (or being towed) into their shop. 

There’s a big difference between self managing your rental (finding tenants, background checks, leases, collecting rent, coordinating issues, etc.) and fixing the mechanical problems that come up.

Check when the roof was replaced and the age of the mechanicals too.Good Luck!

You need an electrical and mechanical inspection for installation of AC even if you have a furnace and the ductwork in place already.

I am currently a fifth year (5/5) Mechanical Engineering student at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA, I have recently accepted a full time job offer as a Mechanical Engineer at a chemical company located in Deer Park, TX with a start date in July 2019. 

@David Brown Has the seller already agreed to owner financing and you are wondering about the mechanics? 

Mechanicals are newer with exception of two ac units.  

Then you pay balance on the sale amount usually within a week for free, within 30 days with 10% interest - and wait till the deed is ready You can during that time to ask your title company to do the search and extend the title insurance but it's not for mechanic liens or taxes - you'll pay all that.That's why it's important to research the property through before you say "bid".